Thunderstorms formed in Missouri overnight Monday through Tuesday morning, causing widespread flash flooding that stranded motorists and forced residents to flee their homes in St. Louis.
According to Fire Chief Dennis Jenkerson, one person died after being rescued from a submerged vehicle. He withheld the person's identity until family members could be notified, he said at a news conference Tuesday afternoon.
Jenkerson estimated that 70 people needed to be rescued or assisted as rain soaked the city.
"In some of these low-lying areas, we've had a tremendous amount of cars that were door-deep and also roof-deep," he said.
Jenkerson stated that the water has begun to recede in some areas. The damaged buildings are being assessed by firefighters.
"The weight of the water is now causing some issues with buildings. We're experiencing some partial roof collapse "He stated. "The stress of this water is also affecting some of the vacant buildings."
According to the National Weather Service in St. Louis, the city had received 8.06 inches of rain by early Tuesday, breaking the previous daily record of 6.85 inches set on Aug. 20, 1915.
According to the weather service, a total of 9.04 inches had been measured by the afternoon, setting a new 24-hour rainfall record.
According to the fire department, at least six people and six dogs were rescued by boat from flooded homes. Firefighters responded to approximately 18 homes due to significant flooding. More than a dozen people chose to stay put, according to the tweet.
Many roads in St. Louis were also closed, including parts of Interstate 70. Cars were stranded on the flooded interstate, and firefighters were seen rescuing drivers from their vehicles.
Residents in nearby Maryland Heights were advised not to travel during the storm.
"Many of our area's roads are flooded and closed. Other roadways are at a standstill due to heavy traffic as drivers attempt to find alternate routes "Maryland Heights police issued a tweet.
A state of emergency was declared, allowing state agencies to collaborate with local governments.
"With record rainfall in the St. Louis region and the possibility of additional rain and isolated thunderstorms, we want to ensure that our communities have every resource available to respond and protect Missourians," said Gov. Mike Parson in a statement.
"We urge Missourians to obey local authorities and emergency managers, never drive through floodwaters, and always use common sense to avoid injury."